On behalf of the Royal Family, the Government Information Service wishes to issue the following communiqué.

Since the skiing accident of His Royal Highness Prince Friso, the Government Information Service has indicated that it would make announcements on medically significant changes in the health situation of the Prince.

Prince Friso has recently begun to show signs of limited awareness; a state commonly known as minimal consciousness. The prognosis continues to be very uncertain and the medical team remains gravely concerned. It will take many months to get more clarity.

The Royal Family, and Princess Mabel and the children in particular, are grateful for the restraint shown by the media since the Prince’s accident. They request the media to continue respecting their privacy.

Princess Mabel would again like to thank the many people who have sent messages of sympathy. ‘This is the most challenging period of my life. My love for Friso, the support of family and friends, and the many signs of compassion give me strength in these difficult times.’